This course provides an in-depth exploration of two central Christian doctrines - the Trinity and the person of Christ - as well as reflection on the role of Holy Scripture and the nature of theology. This is the first part of a two-part sequence in basic Christian doctrine. Online lectures, discussion board postings, final paper.

Offers an overview of the principles, resources, and central themes of Christian theology - revelation, the doctrines of the Trinity, the person and work of Jesus Christ, and humanity in relation to God. Discussion paper, final exam, class participation.

Primer for theological students with little or no background in philosophical thought. Attention to revolutionary developments in philosophical thought and how they have influenced development of Christian faith. Book analysis, exam.

An introduction to the subjective dimensions of Catholic moral theology. Among the topics to be considered are concepts of the person, freedom and responsibility, conscience, aspects of moral decision making, virtue and vice. Lectures, discussions, readings, short papers and final exam; the course will also include a limited online component. (Prerequisite: Fundamental Christian Ethics I.)

An introduction to foundations of Catholic moral theology. Among the topics to be studied are scripture, tradition, natural law, relationship between faith & morality, moral norms, virtue and vice, freedom, conscience and magisterium, etc. Readings, lectures, online discussion, short written assignments and final exam.

This course explores the activity of God from creation to new creation, with special emphasis on the Spirit's work in the Church. We also examine the image of God in the human person and the nature of sin. This course presupposes Systematic Theology I. Lectures, tutorials. Short papers, final exam. Tutorial 10-11 am

An examination of formative and alternative theologies of redemption from Christianity's early years through the twentieth century, focusing on how theologians have variously conceived the problem to which redemption is addressed, the work and person of Jesus Christ, and the roles of God and humanity in effecting redemption. Theologians considered may include Irenaeus, Athanasius, Augustine, Calvin, Bushnell, Maurice, Niebuhr, Cone, Soelle, Heyward, and Ruether. Lectures, reading, discussions, presentation and final paper. Prerequisite: one introductory course in systematic theology.

Mystery of God Triune: biblical, liturgical, historical, and contemporary theology on the Trinity. Question of God in human experience, atheism, Trinitarian debates, feminist perspectives, the Trinity in the economy of salvation, implications for prayer. Lectures, discussions, short paper, final exam.

Systematic and pastoral approach to christology and soteriology. Emphasis on New Testament christologies, later developments, contemporary interpretations. Study of the impact on christology of such issues as the continuing quest for the historical Jesus, dialogue with other religions, and in particular with Judaism, the challenge of liberation and feminist theologies, and the new cosmology. Seminar participation, short paper, take-home exam.

Christian doctrine of creation; its scriptural foundation in Old and New Testaments; its difference from Greek philosophical theories; its history to present; its relation to evolution; contemporary theories. Man/woman: their nature and relationship to God and the world as understood in history of Christian thought. Monogenism vs. polygenism. The problem of evil, original sin and sin of the world. Lectures and discussion. Paper.

The new creation in Christ; God's universal salvific will, the mystery of Christian Justification, the new life in Christ within Church for the world. Eschatology. One midterm test, one mini-synthesis and a final oral examination.

The mystery of the Church as seen in the light of Vatican II. Her foundation in Christ in Scripture and history that gives rise to her structure, mission, and four Marks. Mary as the Mother of the Church and eschatological icon. One midterm test, one mini-synthesis and a final oral examination.

Schedule: Wednesday, 11:00 to 13:00Schedule Notes: The first class, January 11, 2012, will be held online using the Blackboard Academic Suite. Details will be sent to your "utoronto.ca" email account. The first lecture will be held January 18, 2012 and will continue thereafter as scheduled.Instructors:Josephine LombardiTeaching Methods: Lectures

This course is an introduction to the history, theology and pastoral practice of Christian liturgy. Topics include: the role of ritual and symbol in human life, the historical development of Christian worship in both East and West, the relationship of liturgy to society and culture, liturgical theology, and critical approaches to liturgical practice. Lectures, readings, discussions, online postings, class presentation, research paper.

Historical and systematic study of the sacraments of healing (penance and anointing of the sick) and sacraments of growth (marriage and orders) with special consideration of the pastoral viewpoint. Three short papers, seminars, final exam.

This is a survey course in Anglican theology that will involve extensive reading. Using the lens of Scriptural interpretation as a way of approaching the sweep of Anglican theological thinking, this course will survey chronologically a broad range Anglican readers of Scripture in an attempt to gauge the development of the larger religious vision of Anglicanism over time. Beginning with Wycliffe, the course will move through a number of writers into the early 20th century, and end with some recent statements on the reading of Scripture from around the Anglican Communion. Lectures and weekly tutorials on the primary-source readings. Weekly content quizzes; midterm; final exam.

Explores historical sources of division among Christian churches, origins of the modern ecumenical movement, the commitment of the Roman Catholic Church to Christian unity, growing agreement in sacramental life. Special attention to implications for catechesis and pastoral care of inter-church families.

This course aims to create an ecumenical and interdisciplinary discourse on the practice of church music which is an important factor in shaping Christian identity from a global perspective. We shall examine various issues pertaining to the role of music in contemporary Christian performance and explore the musical enterprises that represent the ethnic and national identities of World Christianities and of migration or diaspora Christianities. Topics covered will include the enculturation of Christian worship and music, music and popular religious culture, the globalization of church music, cultural hybridity and inclusivity in Christian music, and the encounter of indigenous musico-religious culture and traditional church music in the non-Western world. Method: lectures, seminars, music listening, readings. Evaluation: Class participation (20%): Review (Book) (20%); Review (Worship) (30%); Presentation (30%)

The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with some of the theological trends and voices characterizing Anglican theology in the twentieth century, as well as to consider how these voices and movements can be integrated into contemporary pastoral and ministerial practice. Theologians to be studied include: Gore, Underhill, Temple, Mascall, Pittenger, Macquarrie, Sykes, Heyward, Tutu, Williams, and others. Theological trends will include modernism, spirituality, liturgical renewal, Anglo-Catholicism, process thought, incarnation, feminism, political and liberation theology, etc. The course will conclude with a consideration of future trends in Anglican theology. Weekly readings, two short essays, class presentation.

The purpose of this course is to help students realize the contextual nature of theology through lectures on contextual theology as well as seminars on Asian theologians and their theologies. With this format, this course aims to help non-Asian students to get some knowledge of Asian cultures and Asian indigenous religions, and Asian students to develop a theology based on their Asian heritage and experiences. Consequently, this course aspires to help theological students, both Asian and non-Asian, to overcome Western parochialism and contribute to a development of Christian theology for the coming multicultural and pluralistic century that we have been already embarked on.

An introduction to various ethical theories from the ancient, medieval and modern world. No previous philosophy courses are required. The systems we will cover include virtue ethics, natural law, emotivism, utilitarianism, deontology, and the ethics of care. We will also spend time discussing value theory and moral naturalism. Teaching methods: Lectures and class discussions. Means of Evaluation: One short paper, two longer papers and class participation.

An examination of three different approaches to ethics. First, we will look at the foundations of Western morality through reading Plato's Gorgias; second, at Nietzsche's attack on Western morality in Beyond Good & Evil; and third at Aquinas' treatment of the virtues. Lectures, discussions, short papers, final exam.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

In the 17th century, the thinkers of the Scientific Revolution were looking for explanations of the physical world that were valid everywhere and for all time. In the 18th century, Enlightenment thinkers were also looking for universally valid explanations—but for human nature, morality and society. That all changed in the 19th century when thinkers realized that the contingency and mutability of existence make once-and-for-all answers impossible. Come find out how Hegel, Kierkegaard, Marx, Darwin, Nietzsche and Freud changed the way we look at the world forever. We will consider the thinkers’ ideas both in their historical context and in light of their implications for our own thinking about human nature, society, history, morality and God. Lectures, discussions, on-line questions. Two 6-8 page papers; class participation; on-line questions; final exam.

A study of the nature of postmodern homelessness in the light of a theological and phenomenological analysis of homecoming and homemaking. Biblical themes such as creation, exodus, covenant, land and kingdom will be interpreted in the context of present experiences of social homelessness, geo-political violence, international refugees, disconnectedness to the earth and an overwhelming sense of being nomads without roots in any place of community. Seminar. Evaluation: Class Participation 25%, reflection papers or one major essay 75%.

A review of the moral, pastoral and canonical principles of sound ministerial practice in the Roman Catholic tradition, along with an intensive practicum. Online component, lecture, discussion, tutoring. For lay students and ordination candidates in the M.Div. program at Regis College only. Oral Examination for pass/fail credit. Prerequisite: permission of the Regis College M.Div. Director.

To explore what it means to 'be in Christ' with particular reference to the question of the Imago Dei. Students will read from a wide variety of sources and explore different understandings of the Imago Dei from Western and Eastern Orthodox theologians. We will look at how these varied perspectives on the Imago Dei have informed classical theological categories including Trinitarian theology, Christology, Pneumatology, Theological Anthropology, Ecclesiology and Soteriology. These theological understandings will then be applied to appraise concepts of sanctification, a variety of ecclesial models and other issues of praxis. The course will consist of seminar presentations, weekly precis on assigned readings, and a final paper. Class participation 20%, Précis 15%, Seminar leadership 30%, Final paper 35%.

Close textual study of the Scriptural sources and dogmatic development of the Church’s reflection on the identity of the God who is revealed in Jesus the Christ. Students develop a systematic understanding of this material, leading to a personal and critical appropriation of the tradition in light of preparation for pastoral and theological leadership in the Church. Lectures and seminars. Assignments for 3222: exegetical paper, oral interview, 2 learning reports, take home final exam. Assignments for 6222: 2 mid-length papers, participation in 3 seminars outside of class time.

This course promotes the personal critical appropriation of the Scriptural and dogmatic tradition in Christology, whether in preparation for the M.Div. comprehensive exam, or as a solid foundation in Christology for other students. It helps the student preparing for ministry to bring a systematic understanding of the person and work of Jesus the Christ to bear on pastoral issues and exposes the student to the spiritual dimension of Christological teaching. Lectures and seminars. Assignments for 3243: exegetical paper, oral interview, 2 learning reports, take home final exam. Assignments for 6243: 2 mid-length papers, participation in 3 seminars outside of class time.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

By the time of Jesus, Second Temple Judaism had articulated an exceedingly wide variety of messianic scenarios, one of which would be embodied in the four gospels and other writings of the New Testament. By the time of the emergence of Muslim faith, Jesus' Messiahship would be taken by Mohammad as a given and yet understood in ways more akin to the contours of Jewish Messianism. This course explores the three Abrahamic faiths according to their leading Christological formulations.

Ignatius of Loyola wanted Jesuits to be "contemplatives in a ction". This describes the desire of many Christians today and the imperatives thrust upon us to be at once boned with God and with our fellow travellers. Reading in Loyola Zizioulas, J Macmurray, early Christian and contemporary theologians and mystics. NT accounts of prayer and action in Jesus of Nazareth. 10-12 page essay.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

The course will examine Protestant Theological Teaching and Traditions of Spirituality and Formation as rooted in medieval and reformation approaches with a particular reference to the Reformed Tradition. In the light of these traditions the course will challenge students to develop a credible and constructive theological framework for spirituality and formation in the 21st century North American and particularly Canadian context.

A sampling of various modern approaches to communion ecclesiology in Western Christian and Eastern Orthodox theologians. History of communion ecclesiology and its relationship to ecumenism. Lectures, seminars, synthesis papers, research paper. Prerequisite: Two introductory courses in Theology.

The Church baptizes and catechizes. The Church celebrates Eucharist. What does it mean to perform these actions? How can we perform them more faithfully? This course provides a 'systematic' theological overview of the sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist, incorporating biblical and historical perspectives along the way. Although the goal of the course is to develop a constructive Anglican theology of the sacraments, we will engage texts and authors from across the ecumenical spectrum. Some attention will also be paid to the 'other' sacraments, such as penance and holy orders. Final exam, short (10-15 page) final paper. Seminar discussions, lectures.

Sacraments of baptism, confirmation, Eucharist, reconciliation, anointing of the sick, orders, and marriage as symbols of the world, challenge to human existence, life functions of the Church and features of Christology and revelation. Lectures, seminars, mid-term papers and final paper. Short paper on ‘Symbol and Sacrament”, total 20%; four short papers on one of the sacraments, 10% each (total 40%); three case study critiques for in-class discussion, total 10%; one final paper, total 30%.

Study and discussion of difficult topics in current ecumenical dialogue among Christian churches where both breakthroughs and barriers are evident. The course will focus on justification, women's ordination, Eucharist, teaching authority, papacy, ethical decision-making and the uniqueness of Christ and/in interreligious dialogue. Auditors welcome. Located at St. Michael's College. Lectures, readings and discussions; take-home exam and final paper.

Inspiring and profound are terms often attributed to the theology of von Balthasar. Benedict XVI said of his work, "His theological reflection maintains intact, to this day, a profound timeliness and leads many to penetrate ever more into the profoundity of the mystery of faith". This course begins an exploration of his work. There is consideration of the Trilogy: Herrlichkeit, Theo-Drama and Theo-Logic; the influence of Ignatius Loyola and Adrienne von Speyr; and the place of Mary. Not a course for the faint-hearted, von Balthasar's work is at times dense and complex but the rewards are beyond price. Prerequisite: one year of theology, at least three theology courses. Lectures, student presentations, one short paper and a research paper.

Recent teaching of the Roman Catholic magisterium on war and peace, social teaching about justice, ecumenical dialogue, nonchristian religions, and women. This course provides an update on important new directions in Catholic magisterial teaching on these five topics. The course examines the varying authority of different magisterial documents and focuses on methods of interpretation. Auditors welcome. Lectures, discussions, papers, take-home exam.

Systematic theology has often been an attempt to develop a theology for all times and all places. But systematic thinking can also be consciously situated in history. In time, our web of beliefs may become reconfigured and re-centred. This course will read selections of Calvin’s Institutes alongside a contemporary text in systematic theology (focussing on areas such as Divine sovereignty, election, grace and self-knowledge) in order to stimulate our own reflections on the best way to develop a theology in and for today.

This course introduces the major religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam in detail and also others in brief) of the world -- their historical setting, basic principles, significant features, Holy Scriptures, theology, etc -- and a Christian perspective on them with an urgency to enter into interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

Using the writings of Thomas Berry & theologians who work with the new cosmology, the course provides an introduction to eco-theology as well as the ways eco-theologians are articulating new understandings of theological anthropology, revelation, Christology, pneumatology, sin and salvation, and eschatology. Adult learning methods. Evaluation: participation, practical integration, reflection paper and integration paper.

Studies the documents and teachings of Vatican II. Brief overview of the historical background to the Council and to Councils in the life of the church. Seminars guide discussions based on close readings of the 16 documents with emphasis on the historical context and ecclesiological significance of each document. Seminar presentations; participation in analysis of the documents; integration paper.

This course explores theological reflection in relation to violence and peace, particularly in Christian traditions. Theories of violence and non-violence as well as case studies from the past and present will provide the means to investigate the ways faith-based claims justify or promote enmity and hostility and/or hospitality and peacemaking in Christian practice. Attention may be given to violence/peace in connection with theologies of revelation and atonement; justice/love; gender, race, ethnicity, class, and disability; Empire and globalization processes; interfaith relations with Jewish, Muslim, and Canadian Aboriginal communities; and the possibility of forgiveness and reconciliation. Lectures, discussions, journal exercises, book review, presentation, and final research paper.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

The seminar will undertake to study the comparative Sunni and Shi’ite theologies (‘ilm al-kalam) to underscore a historical development of Muslim creed in the context of social and political conditions. The course will concentrate on the development of Muslim Theology in general and the Sunni and Shi’ite creeds in particular. It will primarily be a comparative theological study, and secondarily Sunni-Shi’i doctrinal analysis. The major concern will be the development of creeds in Islam, the gradual process of formulating Principles of Religion (usul al-din), and their crystallization in the form of dogmas, with theological complexities. The essential difference between the Sunni and Shi’ite schools of thought begins in their emphasis on the fundamentality of leadership for the continuation of the prophetic mission. This difference also leads to their classification of the founding principles of Islam. While the Sunnites have insisted on a communal consensus regarding the centrality the community’s adherence to the Tradition for the continuation of the mission, the Shi’ites have regarded the ongoing need for authoritative guidance following the Prophethood, that is, the Imamate on rational-scriptural grounds. The Sunnites have rejected the latter necessity on rational grounds. There is, however, agreement among all Muslims that three doctrines constitute the faith of Islam: Unity of God, Prophethood of Muhammad, and the Final Day of Judgment. The Shi’ites add to these three two other doctrines: the Justice of God and the Imamate of the rightful successors of the Prophet. The Shi`a-Sunni differences have also impacted the development of juridical principles and ethical epistemologies based on the relationship between reason and revelation.

The concept of forgiveness is currently garnering much attention in the areas of ethics and social-political philosophy. It is both advocated and challenged as an alternative to justice as law, or to typical forms of legal justice and punishment. This course, while addressing current and practical discussions of the place of forgiveness in politics, will also dig more deeply into what could perhaps be called the “social-ontological” meaning of forgiveness, one that Hegel develops, for instance, to explain the relationship between individuals and the social body. We will read selections from the work of Hegel, Arendt, Jankélévitch, Derrida and Ricoeur.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

Everyone participates in the arts and culture, but who can say why? This course asks why the arts are important and addresses issues that face contemporary creators and interpreters of culture. Our aim is to develop imaginative, faith-oriented participation in the arts and culture. We will consider such topics as artistic freedom and social responsibility; communication through the arts and culture; the impact of globalization on cultural communities; the ethics of mass entertainment; the aesthetic quality of urban environments; and the role of arts in worship and interreligious dialogue. In addition to class sessions, we will attend various events in the city. Lecture, discussion, class presentations, attendance of public events, paper writing. Class participation: 20% / Seminar presentations: 30% / Research project: 50%.

Postmodernity as a cultural phenomenon, implications in various areas of cultural endeavour (including politics, philosophy, psychology, theology, the arts, and science), and work toward an integral Christian worldview that gives guidance in a post-modern world. A particular concern will be to plumb the resources of Scripture for such a cultural context. Teaching method: seminars, lectures, multimedia. Evaluation is based upon essays (one 5-7 page essay, one 15-20 page essay) and participation.

The realities of human sexuality, marriage and family from a Christian perspective. Topics to be considered include: sexuality in the context of the person, marriage as sacrament, marriage permanence, marriage as procreative, marital fidelity, and homosexuality. Two short papers and seminar presentation.

A study of the basis of sexuality and marriage and select related issues in light of the Catholic moral tradition. Readings, lectures, discussions, paper, mid-term test, final exam; the course will also include a limited online component. (Prerequisite: Fundamental Christian Ethics I and II or Permission of Instructor)

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

This course seeks to understand the basis upon which the Bible can be read “figuratively”, within the context of an understanding of historical and temporal reality. The course makes use of exegesis (1 Corinthians 10, Genesis, and Ephesians 1), history of interpretation (both Christian and Jewish), philosophy of time, and the history of the philosophy of time as relevant to Christian theology and exegesis. The goal of the course is to outline a working framework for understanding how traditional figural referents in the Bible can be sustained in Christian reading of Scripture. Seminar format. Evaluation: Based on seminar performance (discussion and presentation of weekly research – 50%) and a final paper (50%).

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

“True theology inquires in as spirit of obedience and reverence….. The life common to Christ and the Church is the context of a living and realized theology.” [Balthasar] A research seminar that will focus key texts on the theme of theology and holiness in the work of Balthasar. “Theology must always be conducted with rigorous precision [but] … there is no such thing as a theological investigation that does not breathe the atmosphere of ‘seeking in prayer’.[Balthasar] Detailed examination of texts, lectures, seminar presentations. Evaluation through seminar presentations, major research paper and significant class participation.

Central ideas in the Kierkegaard corpus and their relevance to contemporary theological and philosophical concerns. Introductory lecture, seminar discussion of readings, discussions, one major term paper.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

A seminar course in which Chapter 64 of the Church Dogmatics will be studied. The topics will be: the Second Problem of the Doctrine of Reconciliation; the Exaltation of the Son of Man; the Homecoming of the Son of Man; the Royal Man; the Direction of the Son. Requirements: weekly readings, class participation, an in-class presentation, an oral examination.

This course provides an opportunity to address in greater focus and depth issues of the "new" and "newer" voices in theology: liberation and contextual theologies in the global South (including US Black and womanist theologies, Hispanic theologies, Canadian-Asian and US-Asian theologies), feminist theologies, eco-theologies, indigenous spiritualities, LGBTQ theologies, and social ethics. First third of course will focus on reviews of: the emergence and development of these "new" theologies; key methodological issues (epistemological/ hermeneutical privilege(s) of the oppressed; postcolonialism, decolonialism); resurgence of social movements and emergent global civil society; recent dialogues and new initiatives (religious diversity, inter-culturality). Remaining classes provide opportunities for students (individually or in teams) to present their own in-depth research on specific topics. Class participation; seminar; research paper

This course will examine the development of Ecumenical Missional Ecclesiology in the 20th and 21st century with a focus on the dimensions of missional ecclesiology for the North American context. The course will explore the theological origins of ecumenical missional ecclesiology, the biblical and hermeneutical dimension of such theology, the present context and its relationship to such ecclesiology and the direction of ecumenical missional ecclesiology. Evaluation: Seminars, papers. Prerequisite: AD program enrolment

Schedule: Monday, 11:00 to 13:00Schedule Notes: Classes held at the TST building at 47 Queen's Park Crescent East.Instructors:Charles James Fensham

Other Information: Second Semester · One CreditEnrollment Notes: This course will be available to a limited number of off site and internationally located students (more than 50 km from Toronto) by means of webcam technology. Permission to join the course by webcam is granted by the instructor (c.fensham@utoronto.ca). Please contact Prof. Fensham if you wish to be participate in this way. Because of this format such students would be required to be online at 10.45 am. In addition all students joining this course in the classroom and by webcam must be aware that this course will often continue and extra 20 minutes after 1 pm if web connection problems interfere with the course delivery.

Examination of the nature of theology from its emergence with the ancient Greek philosophers to its establishment as an academic enterprise in the middle ages. Seminar presentations (2) and a major paper.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

Critically explores the theology and spirituality of Dorothee Soelle, with special attention on the themes of creation-liberation theology, suffering, God, feminist concerns, embodied spirituality, and mysticism. Seminar discussion, lecture, short presentations, major essay.

Inquiry into the role and meaning of religion in a post/metaphysical, post/secular time within the frameworks of critical theory, psychoanalysis and ethics. Authors include Horkheimer, Adorno, Benjamin, Freud, Habermas and their theological/religious interlocutors, i.e. Charles Davis, Elisabeth Schuessler Fiorenza, Hent de Vries. Major paper.

Close textual study of the Scriptural sources and dogmatic development of the Church’s reflection on the identity of the God who is revealed in Jesus the Christ. Students develop a systematic understanding of this material, leading to a personal and critical appropriation of the tradition in light of preparation for pastoral and theological leadership in the Church. Lectures and seminars. Assignments for 3222: exegetical paper, oral interview, 2 learning reports, take home final exam. Assignments for 6222: 2 mid-length papers, participation in 3 seminars outside of class time.

This course promotes the personal critical appropriation of the Scriptural and dogmatic tradition in Christology, whether in preparation for the M.Div. comprehensive exam, or as a solid foundation in Christology for other students. It helps the student preparing for ministry to bring a systematic understanding of the person and work of Jesus the Christ to bear on pastoral issues and exposes the student to the spiritual dimension of Christological teaching. Lectures and seminars. Assignments for 3243: exegetical paper, oral interview, 2 learning reports, take home final exam. Assignments for 6243: 2 mid-length papers, participation in 3 seminars outside of class time.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

By the time of Jesus, Second Temple Judaism had articulated an exceedingly wide variety of messianic scenarios, one of which would be embodied in the four gospels and other writings of the New Testament. By the time of the emergence of Muslim faith, Jesus' Messiahship would be taken by Mohammad as a given and yet understood in ways more akin to the contours of Jewish Messianism. This course explores the three Abrahamic faiths according to their leading Christological formulations.

Ignatius of Loyola wanted Jesuits to be "contemplatives in a ction". This describes the desire of many Christians today and the imperatives thrust upon us to be at once boned with God and with our fellow travellers. Reading in Loyola Zizioulas, J Macmurray, early Christian and contemporary theologians and mystics. NT accounts of prayer and action in Jesus of Nazareth. 20-25 page essay.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

The course will examine Protestant Theological Teaching and Traditions of Spirituality and Formation as rooted in medieval and reformation approaches with a particular reference to the Reformed Tradition. In the light of these traditions the course will challenge students to develop a credible and constructive theological framework for spirituality and formation in the 21st century North American and particularly Canadian context.

A sampling of various modern approaches to communion ecclesiology in Western Christian and Eastern Orthodox theologians. History of communion ecclesiology and its relationship to ecumenism. Lectures, seminars, synthesis papers, research paper. Prerequisite: Two introductory courses in Theology.

The Church baptizes and catechizes. The Church celebrates Eucharist. What does it mean to perform these actions? How can we perform them more faithfully? This course provides a 'systematic' theological overview of the sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist, incorporating biblical and historical perspectives along the way. Although the goal of the course is to develop a constructive Anglican theology of the sacraments, we will engage texts and authors from across the ecumenical spectrum. Some attention will also be paid to the 'other' sacraments, such as penance and holy orders. Final exam, short (10-15 page) final paper. Seminar discussions, lectures.

Study and discussion of difficult topics in current ecumenical dialogue among Christian churches where both breakthroughs and barriers are evident. The course will focus on justification, women's ordination, Eucharist, teaching authority, papacy, ethical decision-making and the uniqueness of Christ and/in interreligious dialogue. Auditors welcome. Located at St. Michael's College. Lectures, readings and discussions; take-home exam and final paper.

Inspiring and profound are terms often attributed to the theology of von Balthasar. Benedict XVI said of his work, "His theological reflection maintains intact, to this day, a profound timeliness and leads many to penetrate ever more into the profoundity of the mystery of faith". This course begins an exploration of his work. There is consideration of the Trilogy: Herrlichkeit, Theo-Drama and Theo-Logic; the influence of Ignatius Loyola and Adrienne von Speyr; and the place of Mary. Not a course for the faint-hearted, von Balthasar's work is at times dense and complex but the rewards are beyond price. Prerequisite: one year of theology, at least three theology courses. Lectures, seminar discussions, student presentations, one short paper and a research paper.

Recent teaching of the Roman Catholic magisterium on war and peace, social teaching about justice, ecumenical dialogue, nonchristian religions, and women. This course provides an update on important new directions in Catholic magisterial teaching on these five topics. The course examines the varying authority of different magisterial documents and focuses on methods of interpretation. Auditors welcome. Lectures, discussions, papers, take-home exam.

Systematic theology has often been an attempt to develop a theology for all times and all places. But systematic thinking can also be consciously situated in history. In time, our web of beliefs may become reconfigured and re-centred. This course will read selections of Calvin’s Institutes alongside a contemporary text in systematic theology (focussing on areas such as Divine sovereignty, election, grace and self-knowledge) in order to stimulate our own reflections on the best way to develop a theology in and for today.

Using the writings of Thomas Berry & theologians who work with the new cosmology, the course provides an introduction to eco-theology as well as the ways eco-theologians are articulating new understandings of theological anthropology, revelation, Christology, pneumatology, sin and salvation, and eschatology. Adult learning methods. Evaluation: participation, practical integration, reflection paper and integration paper.

Studies the documents and teachings of Vatican II. Brief overview of the historical background to the Council and to Councils in the life of the church. Seminars guide discussions based on close readings of the 16 documents with emphasis on the historical context and ecclesiological significance of each document. Seminar presentations; participation in analysis of the documents; integration paper.

This course explores theological reflection in relation to violence and peace, particularly in Christian traditions. Theories of violence and non-violence as well as case studies from the past and present will provide the means to investigate the ways faith-based claims justify or promote enmity and hostility and/or hospitality and peacemaking in Christian practice. Attention may be given to violence/peace in connection with theologies of revelation and atonement; justice/love; gender, race, ethnicity, class, and disability; Empire and globalization processes; interfaith relations with Jewish, Muslim, and Canadian Aboriginal communities; and the possibility of forgiveness and reconciliation. Lectures, discussions, journal exercises, book review, presentation, and final research paper.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

The seminar will undertake to study the comparative Sunni and Shi’ite theologies (‘ilm al-kalam) to underscore a historical development of Muslim creed in the context of social and political conditions. The course will concentrate on the development of Muslim Theology in general and the Sunni and Shi’ite creeds in particular. It will primarily be a comparative theological study, and secondarily Sunni-Shi’i doctrinal analysis. The major concern will be the development of creeds in Islam, the gradual process of formulating Principles of Religion (usul al-din), and their crystallization in the form of dogmas, with theological complexities. The essential difference between the Sunni and Shi’ite schools of thought begins in their emphasis on the fundamentality of leadership for the continuation of the prophetic mission. This difference also leads to their classification of the founding principles of Islam. While the Sunnites have insisted on a communal consensus regarding the centrality the community’s adherence to the Tradition for the continuation of the mission, the Shi’ites have regarded the ongoing need for authoritative guidance following the Prophethood, that is, the Imamate on rational-scriptural grounds. The Sunnites have rejected the latter necessity on rational grounds. There is, however, agreement among all Muslims that three doctrines constitute the faith of Islam: Unity of God, Prophethood of Muhammad, and the Final Day of Judgment. The Shi’ites add to these three two other doctrines: the Justice of God and the Imamate of the rightful successors of the Prophet. The Shi`a-Sunni differences have also impacted the development of juridical principles and ethical epistemologies based on the relationship between reason and revelation.

The concept of forgiveness is currently garnering much attention in the areas of ethics and social-political philosophy. It is both advocated and challenged as an alternative to justice as law, or to typical forms of legal justice and punishment. This course, while addressing current and practical discussions of the place of forgiveness in politics, will also dig more deeply into what could perhaps be called the “social-ontological” meaning of forgiveness, one that Hegel develops, for instance, to explain the relationship between individuals and the social body. We will read selections from the work of Hegel, Arendt, Jankélévitch, Derrida and Ricoeur.

Offered in Winter 2012 · New Course · Toronto (St. George Campus) Site

Everyone participates in the arts and culture, but who can say why? This course asks why the arts are important and addresses issues that face contemporary creators and interpreters of culture. Our aim is to develop imaginative, faith-oriented participation in the arts and culture. We will consider such topics as artistic freedom and social responsibility; communication through the arts and culture; the impact of globalization on cultural communities; the ethics of mass entertainment; the aesthetic quality of urban environments; and the role of arts in worship and interreligious dialogue. In addition to class sessions, we will attend various events in the city. Lecture, discussion, class presentations, attendance of public events, paper writing. Class participation: 20% / Seminar presentations: 30% / Research project: 50%.

Postmodernity as a cultural phenomenon, implications in various areas of cultural endeavour (including politics, philosophy, psychology, theology, the arts, and science), and work toward an integral Christian worldview that gives guidance in a post-modern world. A particular concern will be to plumb the resources of Scripture for such a cultural context.Lectures, seminar discussions, multimedia. Reflection paper (25%), participation (25%), major paper (50%).

Application of critical thinking to contemporary issues in biomedical ethics including: issues pertaining to the creation of life (e.g., IV fertilization, reproductive technology, surrogacy, stem cell research), the preservation of life (e.g., right to care, refusal of care, micro & macroallocation of limited resources, informed choice), and the end of life (e.g., euthanasia, allowing to die, elder neglect).

A survey of Medieval and Reformation Theologies, from 843 to 1648. The Carolingian Revival and Monastic Schools; Anselm and Cur Deus Homo; Peter Lombard and the Cathedral Schools; Abailard and the Universities; the rediscovery of Aristotle; the Friars: Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, Duns Scotus, William of Occam; Gregory Palamas; the Reformation: Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, Thomas Cranmer; the Synod of Dort; Richard Hooker; Second Scholasticism.

Outlines the history of Christian missions from its beginnings in Pentecost to the end of the 20th century, followed by area studies of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Europe, and concluding with a consideration of the transition from missions to development to post-development. Short papers and collaborative internet project.

A review of all of the surviving works of Richard Hooker, often called the first theologian of Anglicanism, his Calvinism and reaction to Calvinism, his scholasticism, and his defence of the institutions of the Church of England. Seminars, short report and major paper. (Taught in alternate years)

Emphasis on the history of the iconoclastic controversy and ecumenical councils, especially for the development of Christology. Readings from Nicaea II, Theodore the Studite, John of Damascus and Theodore Abu Qurrah. Iconography and spirituality. Church visit. Lectures-seminar, reflection papers, major paper. Prerequisite: Three courses from the Theological or Historical departments.

A review of all of the surviving works of Richard Hooker, often called the first theologian of Anglicanism, his Calvinism and reaction to Calvinism, his scholasticism, and his defence of the institutions of the Church of England. Seminars, short report and major paper. (Taught in alternate years)

Emphasis on the history of the iconoclastic controversy and ecumenical councils, especially for the development of Christology. Readings from Nicaea II, Theodore the Studite, John of Damascus and Theodore Abu Qurrah. Iconography and spirituality. Church visit. Lectures-seminar, reflection papers, major paper. Prerequisite: Three courses from the Theological or Historical departments.

Introductory study of the Anglican communion as a worldwide form of Christianity; its history, key theological issues, worship, schools of thought, approaches to spirituality. 3 short papers. Interdisciplinary History and Theology.

Intensive analysis of structure, content and spirituality of the Ignatian Exercises as a background for general ministry of spiritual growth and ministry in the church. Lecture and discussion. Class participation and short papers. Intended primarily for those who seek to direct the Exercises. Permission of the instructor required.

Exposes students to contemporary forms of critical and cultural analysis, using the analysis to look at spirituality and exposing students to contemporary manifestations of spirituality in a post-modern age. Eight reflection papers; class participation.

This course explores the nature of religious experience in some of the major religions of the world, with special attention to Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam and Christianity. It includes some comparative analysis between traditions, and creative reflection on the theological and pastoral significance of such comparative study. Lecture, discussion, four short reflection papers, one major essay.